اللَّهُمَّ اهْدِنِي لِأَحْسَنِ الْأَخْلَاقِ لَا يَهْدِي لِأَحْسَنِهَا إِلَّا أَنْتَ، وَاصْرِفْ عَنِّي سَيِّئَهَا لَا يَصْرِفُ عَنِّي سَيِّئَهَا إِلَّا أَنْتَ
O Allah, guide me to the best of character, for none can guide to the best of it except You. And turn me away from evil character, for none can turn away from evil character except You.
Allahumma ihdini li-ahsani-l-akhlaqi la yahdi li-ahsaniha illa Anta, wa-srif 'anni sayyi'aha la yasrifu 'anni sayyi'aha illa Anta.
When to Read
Recite this dua regularly, especially at the times you seek Allah's guidance and protection. It's particularly beneficial when you find yourself in situations where backbiting and slander are prevalent, or when you feel your own tongue might slip into such speech. Make it a habit after your obligatory prayers.
How to Read
Recite with sincerity and a humble heart, focusing on the meaning of the words and your need for Allah's assistance. Raise your hands as you would in other duas, and ask with conviction that Allah molds your character and protects your speech. It's a comprehensive dua for character, which naturally includes guarding against harmful speech.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua is a powerful supplication for refining one's character, directly addressing the root of many social ills, including backbiting and slander. By asking Allah to guide you to the best of manners and protect you from the worst, you are actively seeking His help in overcoming the temptation to engage in harmful speech. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) himself made this dua, indicating its immense importance. A refined character naturally inclines one away from gossip and backbiting, as it is contrary to good manners. This dua helps cultivate the inner disposition necessary to avoid such destructive habits, fostering positive relationships and pleasing our Creator.
Source & Authentication
Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her) said: The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) used to supplicate: 'Allahumma ihdini li-ahsani-l-akhlaqi la yahdi li-ahsaniha illa Anta, wa-srif 'anni sayyi'aha la yasrifu 'anni sayyi'aha illa Anta.' (O Allah, guide me to the best of character, for none can guide to the best of it except You. And turn me away from evil character, for none can turn away from evil character except You.)